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Today is Thursday, June 25, 2026
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Online ticket purchases may be made at bethelhouseinc.org through October 20.
Reservations may be purchased at bethelhouseinc.org through Friday, October 20.
Editor’s note: The following announcement was provided by Sirina Hoffmann.
The WWHSAA will be holding the annual meeting at noon on Saturday, October 21, 2023 at Jessica’s Family Restaurant. All alumni and guests are invited to attend. During the annual meeting officer elections are held in addition to general alumni business. All attendees are responsible to pay for their own meal. Go Whippets!
The members of St. John’s Masonic Lodge invite the citizens of Whitewater and the surrounding area to come out and enjoy a nice hot meal and show your support for our lodge. Our semi-annual fundraiser dinners are essential to support our organization and the costs of maintaining and insuring our beautiful old building. Come out and dine in and allow us to serve you, or you can carry out meals and enjoy them in the comfort of your own home. We look forward to serving you.
Editor’s note: The photo on the homepage is not representative of the dinner, as there is no vegetable other than coleslaw on the menu.
Editor’s note: The following press release was provided by the Whitewater Arts Alliance.
The Whitewater Arts Alliance (WAA) is having a shorter monthly exhibit entitled Hallow’s Gala at the Cultural Arts Center, 402 West Main Street. This exhibit is running from October 13 to October 29, Thursdays through Sundays, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The following dates have differing times to be in tandem with other local Whitewater events:
- Thursday, October 26 – 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Hallow’s Gala is participating in the Whitewater Chamber of Commerce’s Ghouls Night Out which runs from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- WAA is a part of the Scavenger Hunt during this event where “ghouls” can look for a special symbol within the gallery. The symbol will be hidden within the exhibit, and the WAA encourages both parents and children to not only look for it but also look at the spooky artwork presented by our artists.
- During the gallery open hours, WAA volunteers will give out candy as a trick-or-treating location among the lineup.
- WAA will also host a “Creepy Sounds Corner” where kids can use musical instruments provided by co-chair Christine Hayes to get into the Halloween spirit.
- WAA will also provide coloring pages with spooky themes for kids to color and take home.
On Sunday, October 29 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Hallow’s Gala will have its closing reception which will feature musical entertainment by Los Bromanceros. Los Bromanceros is the duo players Brian “Looper” Lucas and Kenny Jones who are also a part of the recently heard Brothers Quinn during the Savory Sounds event. Entry to the reception is $5 at the door, kids 8 years or younger get in free. There will be a costume contest with a small prize included, as well as candy and treats for attendees to enjoy. Awards for Best of Show and Viewer’s Choice will be announced during this reception.
Artists within this exhibit are…
- Bridget Coulter, mixed media artist (Whitewater, WI)
- Anna Curtis, mixed media artist (Menomonee Falls, WI)
- Michael Joers, painter (Janesville, WI)
- Ashley McDarison, digital artist (Delavan, WI)
- Kim McDarison, painter (Delavan, WI)
- Taylor McDarison, ceramicist (Waukesha, WI)
- Woody Olsen, mixed media artist (Janesville, WI)
- Roy Schmidt, photographer (Watertown, WI)
The information about this exhibit can be found on the Whitewater Arts Alliance’s website https://www.whitewaterarts.org/hallows-gala-2023.
If you have any questions or concerns, you can reach out to co-chairperson Ashley McDarison, mcdarisonproductions@gmail.com.
Click here to register. Please note that the deadline is today, 10/17.
Editor’s note: The Banner appreciates having permission to use the image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay.
Editor’s Note: The following was provided by University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension Horticulture Program.
UW-Madison Division of Extension Horticulture Program is offering FREE educational online programs to help you be more successful in your own yards, gardens, containers – anywhere you grow plants!
Our next series, Houseplant Myth Busters, Tool Ideas and Succulent Spotlight, starts soon. Registration is required for each program. Participants can attend only one or all three! This series is open to the public. All programs in this series will be recorded and made available on the Extension Horticulture website. Go to bit.ly/3IYUVFq to find out more and to register!
Houseplant Mythbusters, Tool Ideas and Succulent Spotlight Online Programs
Debunking Houseplant Myths
Date/Time: October 31, 12:00 p.m.
Description: It can be hard to separate fact from fiction, especially when it comes to plant care and pest prevention. Join us to discuss common misconceptions about your indoor plant care and learn the correct strategies to keep your indoor greenery thriving and healthy. Presented by: Johanna Oosterwyk, DC Smith Greenhouse Manager, UW-Madison
Adaptive Gardening Tools: What to think about for success next season
Date/Time: November 9, 12:00 p.m.
Description: Here are some ideas of gardening tools that will make your life in the garden easier and extend your time outside enjoying the weather. By using adaptive gardening tools you can care for your plants while reducing the chance of injury.
Presented by: Ann Loper, Chairwoman of the Lifelong Gardening Project, SouthEast Wisconsin
Master Gardener (SEWMG) Association
Growing Adenium (Desert Rose) – The Flamboyant Succulent
Date/Time: Tuesday November 14, 12:00 p.m.
Description: Adeniums, or “Desert Roses,” are popular houseplants because of their structurally interesting shapes and abundance of flowers available in a diversity of colors. But, as succulents, they have special cultural requirements for care and maintenance. Join us to learn how you can successfully grow these plants and keep them thriving at home! Presented by: Dan Mahr, Emeritus Professor and Extension Entomologist, UW-Madison, and Honorary Fellow and Past President, Cactus and Succulent Society of America.
Go to bit.ly/3IYUVFq to find out more and to register! These webinars are hosted by UW-Madison, Division of Extension, Horticulture. For upcoming events and learning opportunities, see https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/events/
Editor’s note: The following press release update was issued by the City of Whitewater Police Department on October 16 at 12:55 p.m.
Whitewater Police Search for Potentially Armed Suspect at Large – SUSPECT IN CUSTODY
On Monday, October 16, 2023, at 11:11 a.m., officers of the Whitewater Police Department took Yefferson Guzman Rodriguez into custody. Officers initially spotted Guzman Rodriguez in the 900 block of Highland St. and he immediately fled on foot. Officers pursued Guzman Rodriguez on foot and took him into custody in the 300 block of S. Prince St. Guzman Rodriguez actively resisted officers’ attempts to take him into custody, and a taser was successfully deployed ending the pursuit.
Whitewater Unified School District staff were notified immediately that the suspect was approaching the area of Lincoln Elementary. The school was placed in a “hold lock” status until officers completed a search of the path Guzman Rodriguez ran to ensure that no weapons were found in the area.
Additional investigation of the incident occurring on the night of October 15th revealed that the victim, an adult female, had been battered and strangled. It was reported that at one point the victim lost consciousness. The suspect will be confined in the Walworth County Jail, and the following charges will be forwarded to the Walworth County District Attorney’s Office: Kidnapping (Wis. Stat. 940.31(1)(c)), False Imprisonment (Wis. Stat. 940.30), 1st Degree Recklessly Endangering Safety (Wis. Stat. 941.30(1)), Substantial Battery (Wis. Stat. 940.19(2)), Strangulation (Wis. Stat. 940.235), Disorderly Conduct (Wis. Stat. 947.01), and Resist/Obstruct Officer (Wis. Stat. 946.41(1)).
The Whitewater Police Department thanks those who provided tips and assisted in the investigation. It is noted that this case has not been concluded. Unless a judgment of conviction is entered, the defendant is presumed innocent of all charges.
Editor’s note: The following press release was issued by the City of Whitewater Police Department on October 16 at 8:16 a.m.
On Sunday, October 15, 2023, at 10:23 pm, the Whitewater Police Department received a report of a female needing assistance at 363 S. Janesville Street. Officers learned that Yefferson Guzman Rodriguez, 18, of Whitewater, had reportedly held the female, an acquaintance, against her will for multiple days, and at [a] point held a gun against her head. Guzman Rodriguez is described as 5’8” tall, 150 pounds, and he is a Spanish speaker.
It is believed that Guzman Rodriguez fled from the residence upon arrival of officers. It was reported that he was armed at that time, and had potentially barricaded himself in a detached garage or in the basement of the residence. Guzman Rodriguez had made comments to the victim about willingness to harm law enforcement. Officers set a perimeter around the residence and garage. The Walworth County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team and Beloit Police Department SWAT team responded to assist in the search of the property. The suspect was not located on the property during the search. Whitewater Police simultaneously searched multiple residences occupied by individuals known to the suspect without locating him.
At this time Guzman Rodriguez is still at large and is considered to be armed. He reportedly possesses multiple rifles. Guzman Rodriguez is wanted for the following crimes: Kidnapping, False Imprisonment, Recklessly Endangering Safety, Intentionally Point Firearm at Person, and Disorderly Conduct.
Whitewater Police have been in contact with staff from the Whitewater Unified School District as well as UW-Whitewater Police so that appropriate security measures can be put in place. We are asking the public to be vigilant. If you see something suspicious, contact the Whitewater Police Department immediately at 262-473-0555 option #4. Call 911 in an emergency. Anonymous tips may be shared using P3Tips.com. The Whitewater Police Department thanks the assisting law enforcement agencies for sending their staff and resources.
It is noted that this case has not been concluded. Unless a judgment of conviction is entered, the defendant is presumed innocent of all charges.
Editor’s note: The following announcement has been released by UW-Whitewater to the campus community.
Campus community,
UW-Whitewater Police are in regular communication with City of Whitewater Police and the Walworth County Sheriff’s Department regarding the ongoing search for a potentially armed suspect wanted for crimes in the city. Because of the information we have, the university remains open and operational and classes are continuing as scheduled.
- As a precaution, campus police have increased foot patrols, mobile patrols and video surveillance.
- Students who live in residence halls should continue to follow good safety practices by not opening the doors for others, and only allowing access via HawkCard.
- As part of our operational procedures, as with any situation, please use your own best judgment and consider your personal safety before deciding to attend classes or work. Students, as always, make sure you communicate with your instructors if you won’t be in class. Employees who cannot make it safely to work should contact their supervisors and request appropriate leave or make arrangements for remote work as their job duties allow.
City of Whitewater Police are asking the public to be vigilant. If you see something suspicious, contact the Whitewater Police Department immediately at 262-473-0555 option #4. Call 911 in an emergency. Anonymous tips may be shared using P3Tips.com.
Editor’s note: Updated on 10/17 at 5 p.m. to add School District event on Wednesday.
City of Whitewater Finance Committee – Monday @ 3:30 p.m.
Agenda = 2024 draft budget review
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.goto.com/948159733
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code:
948-159-733
United States:
1 (646) 749-3122
Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://meet.goto.com/install
City of Whitewater Alcohol Licensing Committee – Monday @ 5:30 p.m.
Agenda = hearing of appeals of denial of beverage operator’s licenses
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82447418895?pwd=dJ6v-OyVrHFuwS5CZ49PsKnv84MpLQ.F6-
YzgoxtRCBwY7C
Telephone: 1 312 626 6799
Webinar ID: 824 4741 8895
Passcode: 645273
Irvin L. Young Library Board of Trustees – Monday @ 6:30 p.m.
Library Community Room 431 West Center,
*In Person and Virtual
Agenda includes Discussion of the library director position description and next steps for the search committee, followed by executive session to discuss appointment of an interim library director effective November 27. The board will reconvene after the executive session.
Please click the link below to join the meeting:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89929656951?pwd=dmd4QkppL2FDMXA5WURjcy8rZ0dHdz09
Meeting ID: 899 2965 6951
Passcode: EzXQ7vJz
Dial by your location
+1 312 626 6799
Meeting ID: 899 2965 6951
Passcode: 50657151
City of Whitewater Common Council – Tuesday @ 6:30 p.m.
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
*In Person and Virtual
Agenda includes Discussion with the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater regarding the Innovation Center, Presentation and Overview of Draft 2024 Budget, first reading of an ordinance to amend Mobile Homes & Mobile Home Parks, first reading of an ordinance regarding licensing of short-term rentals, Discussion and possible action regarding an RFP for legal services to retain an outside law firm to advise the Common Council on employee discipline and personnel matters not to exceed $10,000, Closed session (to reconvene) to discuss MOU/MSP with UWW concerning the Innovation Center Item to be discussed: 1)Discussion regarding complaints received by the Human Resources Department.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81116772484?pwd=Ro9fjhHaRgRt8uAknylwyVHynNdqkw.MBXVHonVB6IBB
WoL
Telephone: 1 312 626 6799 US
Webinar ID: 811 1677 2484
Passcode: 451871
Please click the link below to join the webinar (after the closed session):
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88581189176?pwd=5rPzHrk3EGefCMhJg0YXrqPw9rAT_A.51Y8m4GYM7XSH
vAv
Telephone: 1 312 626 6799
Webinar ID: 885 8118 9176
Passcode: 173751
Parks & Recreation Board Public Notice – Wednesday @ 5:30 p.m.
Cravath Lakefront room 2nd floor 312 West
Whitewater Str *In Person
Meet and greet of new Parks & Recreation Director Kevin Boehm
Members of the Whitewater School Board will be attending the WUSD Unplugged session at the Central Office on
Wednesday, October 18, 2023 beginning at 6:00 p.m. A quorum of the School Board may be present; however, the
Board will not be conducting any business during the event.
Community Development Authority Board of Directors – Thursday @ 5:30 p.m.
(In Person & Virtual)
Whitewater Municipal Building Community Room,
312 West Whitewater St.
Agenda includes Discussion and possible action regarding acceptance of proposed Real Estate Listing Contract for brokerage services for sale of City-owned properties, and discussion regarding housing strategy going forward.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89101540851?pwd=uXqfKM9W-Lvfes5y64AlhkFxIZ4AoQ.yK18q4rsbLfScFxW
Passcode: 207682
Or Telephone: 1 312 626 6799
Webinar ID: 891 0154 0851
Passcode: 207682
Obituaries
Marion Jauch Burrows (Feb. 2, 1930 – June 5, 2026) Her sparkling eyes, warm laugh, and generous ways were gifts Marion brought into this world, touching family members and friends alike over the ninety-six years of her life. She was born and raised in Lombard, IL, and in the course of her life lived with her husband and growing family in Abilene, TX, St. David’s, PA, Arkadelphia, AR, Ada, OK, and Colorado Springs, CO, before settling in Whitewater, WI, in 1965. Generosity of heart, compassion toward those in need in and beyond her community, and an unwavering commitment to fairness … Read more
Patricia “Pat” Lynn Bailey, age 70, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026 with her daughter by her side. Pat was born February 21, 1956 in Ann Arbor, Michigan to John and Ruth (Hudock) Prentice. After a brief time in Ann Arbor, the Prentice family moved to Whitewater, Wisconsin, where Pat grew up as part of the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater community, where her father served as University Registrar. Pat attended the University School and later graduated from UW Whitewater with a degree in Elementary Education. Although she did not pursue teaching, she built a meaningful career in Human … Read more
Gemelino Paris Esperante, 83, long time resident of Whitewater, passed away on Thursday, June 4th, 2026. He was born on January 10, 1943, to his late father and mother, Evaristo and Carmen in Spain. In 1973 he moved to the United States as a sheep herder. On August 21, 1981, he was united in marriage to Cyndie Esperante in Colorado. Gemelino also worked in Mining and construction for many years. He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, raising sheep and growing things in his garden, and flowers. He will be missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife … Read more
Mary Ann Warner died peacefully on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at Crestridge Assisted Living in Dodgeville. Her physical heart failed, but her actual, loving heart never did. Ann was born June 28, 1939 to Mary and Charles Kearns in Iowa. She moved to Whitewater, Wisconsin and graduated with many dear friends in the class of 1957. Ann married John Warner on September 19, 1959. They lived in Whitewater, Sturgis Michigan, and finally settled in Janesville where they built a beautiful life and raised their family. Together, they ran a business, traveled, played cards, and enjoyed their lives. When they became … Read more
Patricia Ann Jacobson (Bureau), age 81, of Whitewater, WI, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, WI. Born on September 2, 1944, in Marquette, MI, to the late Donald and Margaret Bureau, Pat grew up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. She graduated from Graveraet High School, attended Michigan State University, and later earned her bachelor’s degree from Northern Michigan University. Pat dedicated her professional life to shaping young minds, working as an elementary and junior high school teacher in both Flint, MI, and Whitewater, WI. At the heart of Pat’s life was a beautiful, … Read more
In loving memory of Lois Lauritzen, age 92, who passed away on June 1, 2026 at Lakewood Memory Care in Brookfield. Lois led an active life full of devotion to family and friends. Born July 14th, 1933 in Silvis, IL, daughter of Harry and Elsie Wilson, she grew up in the Quad Cities with older brother Harry Wilson Jr. Lois graduated from Augustana College in Rock Island, IL with a degree in physical education. She met her husband Paul Lauritzen on the college tennis team. Their marriage on June 12th, 1955 lasted 59 years until Paul’s death on September 26th, … Read more
Donald Walter Triebold passed on to his eternal home on May 21, 2026. Don was born on April 23, 1935, in Evanston, IL, to the late Frederick W. and Mildred (nee Stecher) Triebold. Through his teen years, Don lived and worked on the family’s dairy farm, where he developed a life-long work ethic. His first eight years of education were in a one-room country schoolhouse, in which all eight grades were taught by one teacher. He graduated from Whitewater City High School in 1953 and then graduated from UW Whitewater in 1958 with a degree in Business Education. He continued his education, and earned a Master’s … Read more
William Kincaid Davis, age 84, passed away on Tuesday, May 19 at Agrace Hospice Center in Fitchburg. He was born on November 1, 1941, in Madison, Indiana, the second son of Salvation Army Officers Agnes (Dixon) and William C. Davis. He attended several schools in Indiana and Illinois, including University of Illinois Experimental High School (Champaign), and graduated from Galesburg High School in 1958. He earned his bachelor’s degree from UW-Eau Claire in 1964 and his master’s degree from UW-Whitewater in 1972. He had an expansive career in education, beginning as an English teacher in Whitehall, Thornton Township (IL) and … Read more
Magdalene “Maggie” Stetter (nee Fritz), 79, of Whitewater, Wisconsin passed from this life onto the next on Monday, May 4, 2026. She was born on January 16, 1947, to the late John and Mary (Presser) Fritz in St. Stefan, Austria. Maggie immigrated from Austria with her parents and brother, became a US citizen, and grew up and attended school in West Allis, WI and then graduated with a teaching degree from University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. Maggie served as a substitute, English, and German language teacher in the Whitewater, Elkhorn, Delavan, and Palmyra schools and at Divine Word Seminary. Maggie … Read more
Lawrence “Larry” C. Hartung, a proud Marine Veteran of the Vietnam War, and longtime resident of Fort Atkinson, WI, passed away peacefully at his home on May 1, 2026. Larry was born June 7th, 1949, to Levon and Charles Hartung in Chicago, IL. Larry enlisted in the US Marine Corps in 1968 and served 3 consecutive tours in the Vietnam War. During this time, he became pen pals with his future wife, Candy, via a connection through his father. In 1970, he came home on leave to marry Candy. They celebrated 55 years of marriage on October 31st, 2025. During … Read more
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